Iceland’s Marine Research Institute recommends halt to capelin fishing for 2024-2025

Iceland’s fishing industry faces potential disruptions next year as the Marine Research Institute has recommended a complete halt to capelin fishing for the 2024-2025 fishing year. Recent assessments reveal that the breeding stock of capelin is not expected to meet recommended limits, prompting this advisory.

Gunnþór Ingvarsson, managing director of Síldarvinnslan, expressed the difficulty of receiving such guidance but noted a silver lining in the data collected. He stated that despite the uncertainties faced in recent years regarding the capelin stock, he remains hopeful for a resolution by January.

However, he acknowledged a crucial environmental concern—the unchecked growth of whale populations around Iceland over the past two decades. Ingvarsson highlighted the visible impact, as fishermen have reported increased whale sightings near the coast, leading to significant consumption of capelin and other fish species.

He emphasized the need for the Icelandic fishing industry to address this situation seriously, stressing that the country must consider the repercussions of expanding whale populations on vital fish stocks. Ingvarsson believes the industry should collaborate with scientists to explore the possibility of a capelin fishing season, as preliminary data suggests there may still be opportunities ahead.

While no capelin fishing will be permitted until further assessments are conducted, optimistic discussions on potential future limits are anticipated early next year, fostering a cautious yet hopeful outlook for both the fishing sector and marine life management in Iceland.